Criteria set for festival celebration: Minister Dhakal

Kathmandu, Aug 5 : Minister for Health and Population Bhanubhakta Dhakal has said government was committed to conducting coronavirus test on more and more people. At least 600 thousand people will undergo PRC test, he said at a meeting with media editors.

“The PCR tests will be increased as per the need. Those entering country via land will be kept in quarantine for two weeks before testing for the virus. Similarly, those coming to Nepal via air will be kept in five-day quarantine,” Minister Dhakal said, blaming the people that they did not become cautious resulting into growing cases of the coronavirus.

He made it clear that the country would not have nationwide lockdown as done before. “Lockdown modality will be discussed. Even the protocol of festival celebration has been passed by the Council of Ministers. Management will be stricter in Tarai districts on COVID-19 handling.

The Minister however said the earlier decision to open flights and long route bus service and schools will be considered. He hinted that the arrangement could be placed in view of the spread in neighbouring country India.

He further argued that Nepal has still low percentage of COVID-19 death- 0.27 percent. Even the World Health Organization and some countries have said Nepal has well managed COVID-19 pandemic.

On the occasion, Health Secretary Laxman Aryal said information on spending on control and prevention of COVID-19 would be shared every week.

Advisor at the Ministry, Dr Khem Karki, argued that there was no community transmission but cluster of cases in Birgunj.

Ministry Spokesperson Dr Jageshwor Gautam sought constructive feedback from the media.RSS